Russell Westbrook’s free agency saga is finally over after the former Nuggets star sealed a successful move to the Sacramento Kings ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season. Westbrook had earlier declined his player option with the Nuggets, which allowed him to test the waters of free agency.
With no suitors in the league, many had started questioning Westbrook’s hasty decision, but the nine-time All-Star believed in his talents. When the Kings called, he quickly negotiated a deal with them. This means Westbrook will remain in the Western Conference and presumably back up Dennis Schröder.
How Did Russell Westbrook React to His Kings Signing?
After the Kings announced the official signing of Westbrook, the 2017 MVP with the Thunder, reshared the same post on his X account with a three-word celebratory caption that read, “LIGHT THE BEAM.”
While many predicted that Westbrook’s future might be in jeopardy following his fallout with the Nuggets, he proved everyone wrong. The two-time NBA All-Star game MVP even received multiple lucrative offers from the Chinese basketball league. However, he refused to entertain any offers as he remained steadfast in continuing his professional career in the NBA.
𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐞 🤝 👑 pic.twitter.com/n1rIwhCLjz
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) October 17, 2025
When asked how he would be looking to adapt in the new role and with his new teammates in the upcoming campaign, Westbook said, “Whatever is asked of me, whatever I need to do that night, I’ll do it. If it’s scoring, rebounding, defending, leadership, energy, whatever it is, I take pride in doing every single thing on the floor for and making winning basketball plays.”
He added, “I’m grateful and thankful that I had the opportunity to be on the floor and play. And show that on a night-to-night basis, I will continue to put effort into the team for the rest of the way.”
Kings GM Scott Perry is a Happy Man
With the latest addition of Westbrook, the Kings now have a strong lineup that can ring up a major upset on any given day in the upcoming season. On securing the nine-time All-Star’s signature, an elated Scott Perry (Kings GM) said, “Russell embodies the identity we’re striving for in Sacramento.”
He added, “His resume speaks for itself, and I’m excited to work with someone so accomplished who is fully committed to competing and winning. We expect him to strengthen our point guard position and provide leadership both on and off the court.”
The Kings could have an incredible starting five, including four All-Stars. If players stay healthy in the long run, they could line up with DeMar DeRozan, Westbrook, Zach LaVine, Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis. This looks like a scary five that no team would want to face.
